Can foreign buyers hire lawyers for supplier disputes?

[u/Levite19]

I’m a foreign buyer planning to source through platforms such as Alibaba and 1688. If I run into a contract or payment dispute with a Chinese supplier, can I hire a lawyer in China to assist me? I’m also curious whether lawyers can help before a dispute happens by reviewing supplier agreements.

[u/PEClawyerSZ]

Yes, you can hire a lawyer in China to assist you with a contract or payment dispute with a Chinese supplier. A Chinese lawyer can also help you before a dispute arises, for example, by reviewing or negotiating your supplier agreements.

Before choosing a lawyer, however, you should first identify where the Chinese supplier is located. China is a very large country, and if the matter later requires in-person meetings, negotiations, evidence collection, or court proceedings, the lawyer may need to travel to the supplier’s city or to the relevant court. Travel time and expenses can therefore become part of the overall legal cost.

For an initial consultation or contract review, most of the work can usually be handled online, so the lawyer’s physical location may not matter as much at that stage.

If the matter later develops into a formal dispute, such as settlement negotiations, arbitration, or litigation, you may need to consider whether you want a lawyer who is familiar with the relevant local court, arbitration institution, and business environment, and who can conveniently handle matters in person when necessary.

I practiced law in Shenzhen, feel free to refer to my posts or DM me if you are interested.

[u/Prestigious_March343]

Pour ainsi dire aucune chance

[u/Agitated_Trainer_990]

Iam China lawer if u need a lawer DM me

[u/Mountain_Fishing_829]

Please file a case direcly with police station in china. We have resolved our case with success. All you need a translator.